Holly and Susannah are the super organised and super style focused creative duo behind Revelry Events. They do everything from finding wedding venues, coming up with stylish wedding ideas, managing your wedding budget and coordinating the day. The Wedding Industry Awards recently named them London Wedding Planner of the Year! That's why we were thrilled when they asked us to be in their Little Black Book.

Here at Revelry Towers we're big fans of wedding videos, to be honest we don't think they always get a fair rep, often they're a last minute addition to the day or people think they're a bit cheesy. Now don't get as wrong, a certain level of cheese does exist in the videography world but we work with some brilliant suppliers who actively avoid this.

We first met Ayla at a wedding fair a few years ago and then worked with her on a styled shoot to mark the launch of Pride, Prejudice and Zombies. Not only that we think she's so good she's doing Susie's wedding, that's right, you heard it hear first - Wagtail Productions is officially Wedding Planner approved, so let's meet the brains behind the operation.

Tell us about your background, how did you get into wedding videography?

I started in photography. I have always been obsessed with taking photographs, even as a child. I studied art and photography at college and uni. Video started to creep into my work, subtly at first. For example, I made a sound track to accompany the viewing of one of my photography exhibitions in London.

I then worked in the film industry as a Camera Assistant. I worked my way up, starting on independent films, then music videos, TV drama, commercials and big budget features. I finally got to fulfil my dream of working on a Bond movie when I did Skyfall. It was, ironically, on that job I decided I needed to make a change. It's really thanks to my experience in the film industry and the wonderful people who trained me that Wagtail Productions is where it is now. There's not a single shoot where I haven't drawn on my experience. It was a truly fantastic time in my life, but the bigger the film, the bigger the crew, the more disconnected from the camera I felt. I wanted to go back to just me and my camera and be in control of my own projects.

I took a break travelling around Europe. I drove from London to Rome solo and spent the summer as an Au Pair for 3 incredible children in Venice. You can't be in Italy and not be inspired, and this is when the filming started. I was au pairing for the most beautiful family. Their lives moved me. I felt I needed to film their every day moments, the innocence and romance of a childhood by the Italian seaside. The family had such joy from the film I made them. I must admit, it's the reactions that make what I do so addictive. Before I knew it, I was back in the UK making little films just for the love of it which lead to my first wedding booking.

How would you describe your film style?

Wagtail Productions works with a huge range of styles. That super 8mm vintage look, classic cinema, stop motion animation, split screen fun, reportage, whatever suits the couple's day. We look at each project with fresh eyes and really get a sense for who the couple are during our pre-wedding chat. Everyone’s wedding has such a different feel, and we want to capture their essence and tell the story with those tiny real moments, such as a look or a touch.

What sets you apart from other wedding videographers?

We are regularly told two things by our couples at the end of their wedding day: “we didn't even notice you filming” and “you feel like part of the family now”. Our approach is to be discreet on the day, but still get those cinematic shots. When the couple and guests are relaxed, the result is a natural and authentic film. We avoid cliches. You won't see sweeping shots of shoes on windowsills in our films haha.

What’s the best thing about the wedding videography industry?

I love the willingness of other videographers to share tips and to help others improve.

And, because we want to be balanced here, what’s the worst?

Videography in the UK is way behind the USA when it comes to recognising the importance of having a wedding video and including it in the budget earlier on. You really do get what you pay for: it's that simple. Many couples who book us say they didn't think they wanted a video until they saw one of our films because they associated it with awkward cheesy shots. I hope it's not long before videography gets the kind of recognition that photography already has.

And finally some top tips, what makes a great wedding video?

Hire a videographer whose style you love, and trust them to do it. If you ask them to change the way they work too much then the result won't be like what attracted you to hire them in the first place.

Communication is key. Tell them what is important to you before the day and about all the details, such as readings and key family members. Then relax and have patience while they take care editing your beautiful film.

We've been published on Love My Dress, and what a beautiful feature they have done! It is thanks to Love My Dress that Cheryl, the bride, found us in their handpicked directory, Little Book for Brides. Who can resist a piano piece composed by the groom for his bride's entrance, personalised vows in a derelict chapel, a boat trip down the river Thames and kissing in a lighthouse? Below is a 2 minute taster of what an incredible wedding this was! If that floats your boat, pardon the pun, then grab yourself a cuppa, or wine if you prefer and enjoy the full wedding video (further down). Don't forget to read the full article on Love My Dress for the stylish photography by Ed Godden and a list of talented suppliers involved.

We start in east London at Alec and Cheryl's cottage on the lock. It's uncharacteristically idyllic for city living, with water both sides of their house and chickens in the yard. When I arrive for their pre-wedding catch up, they tell me they considered using their canoe to get to the ceremony and I held in a little squeal of excitement. Although this option has sensibly been vetoed, I know at this point this will be a love story easy to tell.

All images are film stills from the video

We connect over a dislike for over soppy wedding videos with sweeping shots of the dress hanging in a tree. Despite this mutual dislike for over done 'romance' and Alec's hesitation about being filmed altogether, there is no lack of sentiment. I get a sense that Alec doesn't consider himself a romantic, by any means, but his cover is blown when they start chatting about how they met. Non-romantics simply do not own a tandem and propose at home by the fire.

Cheryl is an immediately warm person, and seeing them together reveals more about the mysterious Alec. I realise going forward that I will have to put Alec at ease, like most grooms, and in all honesty I quite like the challenge. I've been told by people that I have a "calming affect" on them, making them confess all sorts and pour their heart out. I confess myself, that I rather enjoy this compliment. Reading Cheryl's testimonial (see below), it seems I was successful in winning Alec over on the value of having a wedding film.

Filming people as they declare their emotions in front of their friends and family, as they most probably have never done before, is normalised. However, I always feel such privilege when couples let me be there for the big moments and the quiet ones too.

Cheryl says “Having the day filmed was something that I’d always hoped we’d be able to do. Initially Alec was less fussed, but when he saw the video that Ayla of Wagtail Productions had created, he confessed that I’d been right (testament to Ayla’s skills!). I hunted for ages to find someone whose style I resonated with. I knew that a formulaic approach or long lingering shots of my shoes wouldn’t be right for us, so I was super happy when I found Ayla and Wagtail Productions. I loved her eye and her way of bringing romance and heart to a film but without it being conventional or too soppy. It felt authentic.

The finished result gave exactly that. I know that some people worry about a videographer being too intrusive, especially with a photographer too, but that wasn’t the case for us. It was discreet and lovely. I don’t think our guests even noticed the day being filmed, but they certainly loved the results too.”

Documentary film making is not all smoke and mirrors, but it's chipping away and showing people the beauty that's already there. Take a look at the behind the scenes shot of myself and Ed bouncing about on the boat with our cameras, so much so, that Alec decides to turn the tables and film us. Thank goodness for my Gimbal.

1. Communication is key! Tell your videographer everything before the day! It's so lovely when there are little surprises planned to make the day even more special but please don't surprise your videographer. If you are planning a dance routine, having flower girls, giving a reading, guest participation during the speeches, using a projector, please tell them in advance. Whether it be a planner or a Maid of Honour, allocate someone to communicate a 2 minute warning to your videographer (and photographer) when key moments are about to happen such as the first dance.

2. Think about having an 'unplugged' day. The temptation to take photographs is one I obviously understand. However, when each guest owns a smart phone, this can be problematic for those professionals you have hired. When you watch back the footage of you and your partner walking back down the aisle, you do not want your view to be obscured by guests leaning in with bright distracting screens. This also means that they have not seen the moment themselves but watched it through a screen. Ask your Officiant to make a friendly announcement before your ceremony starts about refraining from taking photos until after the register signing, when guests can then come up and snap away.

3. Ignore them. Unless your videographer is jumping up and down, calling your name of course. Pretend they are not there. No need to readjust or ask what they want when they approach. It will happen sometimes, but try not to look down the lens if you can help it; it breaks the third wall.

5. Couple time is gold dust. Unlike a photographer, a videographer has to think about how shots relate to other shots and how they can form one complete film. Scheduling that couple time will be a vital part of the narrative. A loving gesture, a laugh, a touch, eye contact, an embrace, a kiss on the head, however you express your affection, is going to look more natural instigated by you rather than their encouraging you on the day. But if you look like you are just talking about the schedule they will be forced to prompt you. Use that time to really be with each other and digest the fact that you just got hitched!

6. Allocate gaps between key moments. We are skilled at capturing things on the fly and really do want to fit around you, but we can also create movie magic when we are not up against time. If your couple shots with your videographer (and photographer) are immediately before the first speech commences, your videographer is going to be rushing to set up cameras and microphones, and once those speeches start, they will have to be settled. With a little bit of time they can make sure the speech giver is not standing in front of an ugly fire exit sign and the sound is clear.

7. Feed them. It's science. If there's no fuel, they will break down. When guests are on their mains/desserts is the best time as they won't be filming people (see point 5) and once the speeches start they won't have time. Most videographers bring a big bag of emergency snacks, but not enough to keep them going for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When the day is up they may have clocked well over 12 hours on their feet. A hot meal will make them feel loved and focused on filming the source of said love.

8. Think about your lighting. If overhead spotlights are your main source of lighting then you will be subject to the harsh shadows they cast on people's faces. Soft light from candles and fairy lights are very flattering. They give a gorgeous ambience when out of focus too.

9. First dances are best when you just let go. We'd all like to look like Fred and Ginger but even they didn't always get it right first time. You're not being judged, you're surrounded by people who love you. Just have fun with it!

The last point being key! JUST HAVE FUN! Whether it rains, whether it was chaos, whether there was time for all the shots or not. Let the joy and love flow out of you and your video will be beautiful.

I am blown away by the positive response our This Is England 86 inspired wedding shoot has had. We are thrilled to be featured on Rock N Roll Bride, amongst so many non-traditional talents. Check out the full article and photographs.

It really was the icing on the cake when our work got the attention of the original cast members of the very TV series which had inspired us to put this shoot together. We have Twitter to thank for that. Andrew Shim (Milky) and Vicky McClure (Lol) gave it the thumbs up, which had us a flutter and then Chanel Cresswell (Kelly) wrote "looks amazing ! Congratulations X"! Having worked in the Film Industry for years before I started Wagtail Productions, I have brushed shoulders with a few amazing actors but not really felt star struck until now. OK, I am milking it a bit but it's very reassuring to get the approval of the people who originally lit the fire. Not sure what director, Shane Meadows, would think though, and I'm definitely content with not finding out!

Images displayed are Wagtail Production's film stills

Whether we realise it or not, I think most creatives put value on their work depending not on whether it is their best work but whether it turns out as envisioned. Somehow, somewhat ironically, our organisation had given us the casual, informal look we were after. I feel we checked the box with the styling and the camera language. There are little zeitgeists that make it feel historical. The main ingredients however, has to be the people. I got into filming weddings not because I am particularly interested in weddings, but because I am really interested in people and their interactions. As Lauren who coordinated the shoot says "these people are real life friends and real couples! They all understand what the alternative way of life is about.” They are the essence 'This Is England'.

Everyone really gave it their all! I feel so grateful to have worked with such a lovely talented bunch of people. I remember the post-shoot buzz we all had. Check out the great team we had below!

Festival Brides have recently launched a beautiful new site, which has been kicked off with our work on Kate and Danny's boho Thailand wedding! Laura, founder and editor of Festival Brides writes:

"As well as their gorgeous photos by Emily Fae Photography, we also have their brilliant video by the incredibly talented Ayla of Wagtail Productions to share. If you have a spare 10 minutes then grab yourselves a cuppa and allow Ayla to transport you to Thailand for Kate and Danny’s beautiful boho beach wedding. It really is a wedding film that is worth watching."

So grab that cuppa (and maybe a biscuit too) and take a look at the video and full post!

These guys! >> They were a dream to film! >> Drop in on these two unexpectedly, and you'll realise their effortless boho-glamour is their everyday >> Don't you just hate people like that? >> Well, that's the other thing, it's impossible to >> They are the kind of couple who ooze positive energy and just a few hours with them is healing >> Their sense of fun and their loyal hearts is what carried 47 of their nearest and dearest, without hesitation, over 6000 miles to Koh Tao, Thailand >> True, it was far from home, but the Koh Tao Cabana Resort felt as though it was made just for them <<

Incredible! What a talent. Ayla truly captured the vibes of the day and really took us back to each moment. Have already watched it 10 times in 24 hours! The music she chose went so well with the footage and was timed to perfection. You could tell the final edit had so much thought put into every second. Ayla is genuinely passionate about what she does and that oozes in her work. We couldn’t have asked for more, we love love love it xxxxx

Baby Caspar

I can't tell you how much I love doing shoots at a family home. There's so much personality within the space itself, and that instantly makes me feel closer to my clients. Just using the available natural window light gives a beautiful softness. Being in familiar surroundings makes for very relaxed shoots and therefore true and natural images.

Baby Caspar was 17 weeks old, and full of smiles, frowns and cheekiness. His day was barely interrupted. He enjoyed being free and naked on the changing mat. He was bathed and wrapped up in a soft towel. He fed and napped with a full tummy. He awoke to be cooed over, kissed and adored. So generally a pretty normal day for him! That's my approach- as little disruption to routine as possible and that way they have an album of memories true to them, a snippet of family life.

Geometric lovers will adore today’s modern, mid-century bridal shoot! It features a gorgeous real life couple and a fun edgy shoot captured by Paola de Paola.

With a strong emphasis on design and a quirky pretty colour scheme of mustard, peach and grey I’m sure you’ll love all the adorable details.

‘The Southbank centre has such a strong design heritage that we were keen to embrace the Mid-century vibe and give it our own twist. We found a print from that era that had a palette of mustard, peach and grey that we loved and thought would be a fantastic scheme to work from. Elegant, and a little unexpected, the whole thing brilliantly captured by both Paola De Paola Photography and Wagtail productions.

The film Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is out today, so what better way to celebrate than to show you this frankly brilliant styled shoot and accompanying short film from wedding planners Revelry. There’s a lot of inspiration to be had here, even though it features the undead! 

Read the full blog post with photographs and the suppliers involved on Way Out Wedding

Our work is featured on Rock My Wedding! Hop over to their blog to see the images of the full shoot with a gorgeous mustard yellow & grey colour palette, and geometric print details.

The Southbank centre has such a strong design heritage that we were keen to embrace the Mid-century vibe and give it our own twist. We found a print from that era that had a palette of mustard, peach and grey that we loved and thought would be a fantastic scheme to work from. Elegant, and a little bit unexpected, the whole thing brilliantly captured by both Paola De Paola Photography and Wagtail Productions.

We wanted the look to be urban, design-conscious with just a bit of rock and roll! The geometric trend definitely fits within this era and Sincerely May created a collection that was perfect with its clean lines and utilitarian font.

The models are a real couple and are young creatives just starting their own careers within the wedding industry and we loved their young, cool look. Young brides aren’t often featured in shoots so we thought it was an original twist. Solomon Dent is a singer songwriter who creates original pieces for couples for their big day so we insisted he brought his guitar.

The Pavilion rooms have amazing views of London so we wanted the look to be unfussy and let the venue speak for itself. It also has a fantastic terrace that we used to showcase the cake table, where a centerpiece cake by French Made were displayed as well as geometric shaped painted macarons from Mon Dessert and fluffy marshmallows sent by The Marshmallowists.

We added a touch of glamour her with a peach sequin table runner from The Sweet Hostess. Geometry was also reflected in the wedding table set up, creating a linear tablescape with clean lines. Tall candlesticks and a cube of bold flowers.

Rock the Frock have such a fabulous collection of dresses and we decided to take the model on a journey from more classic pretty through to really edgy with mustard tights, denim jacket and cute shoes from Love Art Wear Art.

Clare from Love Blooms created arrangements that encapsulated the period and matched the scheme so well with coral peonies, anemones and hints of mustard and dark leaves. A different take on the flower crown shows how a look can be totally transformed with fresh flower adornments. Traditional jewellery was replaced by non-permanent modernism inspired tattoos by Deborah Ballinger Illustrations.

That's the last wedding of the year done and just one more shoot to go!

I pour everything I have into each project, and it's touching when those who stand by you recognise your efforts. I received this in the post from a dear friend this morning...

"Dearest Ayla, just a little something to help you relax after working so hard. Love you lots like jelly tots. Amy x x x"

How lucky I am to have such a friend. I couldn't have made it to where I am now without my support network. There's really nothing more important in life than loved ones. That's why I love my job so much; I get to save those moments spent together, to be remembered and relived.

This is a new record. It's Thursday morning. I haven't left the house/office since Saturday night. I may go insane, but it would be in the name of creativity at least. This is what happens when you are the only permanent member of staff in your small business, run from home.

I have seen people though. Well, when I say people, I mean my partner, a friend on Facetime, and the people in my videos. That counts right?

I do feel there is too much value put on being busy, and that is not my intention. "How are you?" "oh you know, busy busy." I'm simply saying it's hard to find that balance. I failed miserably at it this week, with long hours and very little breaks, but I am happy, and grateful, if not a little institutionalised. I am creatively fulfilled and immersed in editing. I'm giving my couples my full attention, crafting their films, knowing that they are going to be moved every time they are transported back to their wedding day. I wouldn't swap it for anything.

Now it's time to put on my shoes, step out into Autumn and perhaps book next weeks lunchtime Pilates sessions. Balance.

I found this dresser on Gumtree for £5! After a lot of paint to cover the dark wood and TLC, it now lives in our kitchen but I use it for display when exhibiting at wedding fairs. With it, we won best stall at the Truly Marvellous Wedding Fair yesterday! We get to come back next year for free which is brilliant because it was a great fair, nicely organised, in a beautiful setting, lots of lovely creative exhibitors and interesting brides and grooms to be.

Flowers made from 35mm film.

The morning rain didn't stop the fun. It turned out to be a beautiful day.